Afghanistan-Iran-Europe railway corridor launches, boosting regional trade

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The long-awaited Afghanistan-Iran-Europe railway corridor has officially been inaugurated, marking a transformative step for regional trade and connectivity, the Iranian Embassy in Kabul announced today.  

The launch ceremony, attended by the Iranian Consul General and the Governor of Herat, saw the first shipment of Afghan exports depart from Herat, traversing Iran en route to Türkiye and onward to European markets.  

Developed in collaboration with Iran, this strategic corridor is set to strengthen Afghanistan’s economy by providing a faster, more efficient trade link to Europe. The project underscores Afghanistan’s growing potential as a key transit hub in the region. 
  
The expansion of Afghanistan’s railway infrastructure holds immense economic and strategic value, not only for the country but for the wider region. By enhancing rail connectivity, Afghanistan is shifting from a landlocked nation to a vital land-linked crossroads for international trade.  

Experts suggest that with sustained investment, political commitment, and regional cooperation, Afghanistan could emerge as a central trade artery connecting Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.  

The new corridor is expected to reduce transportation costs, increase export opportunities, and foster deeper economic integration across Eurasia. As the first shipment embarks on its journey, stakeholders are optimistic about the corridor’s potential to reshape regional trade dynamics.

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